Divya Delhi: Shoaib was scary. His furious pace and dramatic celebrations might destroy the finest batting lineups. In an era when IPL bowling speeds often exceeded 150 kmph, a guy made even the fastest pacers appear ordinary. Shoaib Akhtar, “the Rawalpindi Express,” was born on this day and remains one of cricket's most controversial figures. Akhtar, a fast bowler who twice unofficially broke 100 mph (161 kmph), was a spectacle and hype-maker.Shoaib would have been the hottest property if the IPL's current trade window existed during his prime. The mix of pace, personality, and match-winning spells would have created a bidding war unlike anything we've seen in 2026, possibly surpassing the recent huge transactions of marquee Indian stars.Fire and Fear with Ball Shoaib was scary in rhythm. His furious pace and dramatic celebrations might destroy the finest batting lineups. Imagine him charging into the Wankhede or Eden Gardens in front of a packed IPL crowd. It was box-office cricket at its best. However, his career was as much about controversy as speed. He was accused of hurling, prompting a redesign. He constantly clashed with team management and selectors over his poor performances, especially in Pakistan's 2003-04 home series loss against India.